ANLCA BoT Candidate, Tunde Awonuga, Calls for Transparent and Fair Elections, Advocates for Industry Reforms

By DAPO OLAWUNI

As the Board of Trustees (BoT) elections for the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) approach, Tunde Awonuga, a key candidate and member of the B-9 Likeminds, shares his thoughts on the election process and his vision for the association.

In an interview, Awonuga emphasized the importance of a controversy-free election, stating that understanding the political dynamics at play is crucial for providing sound advice. “For some time, I have been out of Lagos and not able to read the body language of many political actors,” he said. However, he expressed confidence that after engaging with stakeholders, he would be able to offer more concrete recommendations.

Awonuga addressed concerns about the election being conducted across zones rather than at a centralized venue during an Annual General Meeting (AGM), as was the tradition. He highlighted the logistical challenges posed by the current economic situation, explaining that the move was driven by practicality.

“The economic hardship is biting harder on everyone,” he noted, adding that the cost of living has dramatically increased. Despite the change in procedure, he expressed optimism about the election, saying, “If everything is well organized as planned, I think it is a well-thought-out strategy and will produce a free and fair election.”

On the issue of transparency, Awonuga dismissed fears of disenfranchisement after reports surfaced that some candidates were unable to submit their nomination forms before the deadline.

“ANLCA is an institution, and there are organs and relevant authorities in charge of elections and matters related to it,” he said, expressing confidence that any issues would be addressed by the appropriate bodies. “My advice is that we should have confidence in the constituted authorities,” he added.

As for his message to election participants, Awonuga urged calm and collaboration. “We are all a family, a professional family… Let us compete to win and remain together, not compete to die,” he advised, stressing the importance of transparency and unity within the association. “If eventually you win, you win to work for us; if otherwise, you should move ahead.”

Awonuga, alongside his fellow B-9 Likeminds, outlined several key priorities for ANLCA’s future, including improving the association’s standing with customs and other government agencies. “We want to make sure that we are able to equate our association with others in other parts of the world,” he said.

He emphasized the need for ANLCA to speak with one voice on policy issues, especially concerning license matters. “Why do governments and others give [associations in other countries] recognition? It is because they partner and speak on policy issues with one voice.”

One of his proposals is the establishment of a permanent liaison office in Abuja to improve ANLCA’s engagement with government agencies. “We need to make sure we have an office in Abuja… where our problem can be solved immediately,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of having a bond arrangement with customs to prevent arbitrary license suspensions. “We need to make sure we standardize that arrangement with customs… so that there is no need for arbitrary suspension of licenses until the issues are resolved,” he explained.

In conclusion, Awonuga expressed his commitment to ensuring that ANLCA becomes a stronger, more unified association that can better advocate for its members and improve the customs licensing process.